Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley. For most people, including those who follow a gluten-free diet, gluten is harmless.

However, for some, it can cause a variety of health issues, ranging from mild sensitivity to a severe autoimmune condition known as celiac disease. In this article, we’ll explore the difference between gluten sensitivity and intolerance, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Gluten Sensitivity

Gluten sensitivity, also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance, is a condition in which consuming gluten causes symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.

Unlike celiac disease, which is an autoimmune condition, gluten sensitivity does not damage the small intestine.

The exact cause of gluten sensitivity is unknown, but it is thought to involve the immune system and the body’s response to gluten.

Some studies suggest that people with gluten sensitivity may have a different immune response to gluten than those with celiac disease or no gluten-related conditions.

The symptoms of gluten sensitivity can vary widely and may include:.

Bloating and abdominal pain
Diarrhea or constipation
Nausea and vomiting
Headaches and migraines
Fatigue and weakness
Joint pain and muscle cramps
Skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis
Depression and anxiety

Diagnosing gluten sensitivity can be challenging, as there are no specific tests or biomarkers for the condition. Typically, doctors will rule out celiac disease and other conditions through blood tests, biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures.

Gluten sensitivity is typically diagnosed through a process of elimination, in which other conditions are ruled out and symptoms improve when gluten is removed from the diet.

Treatment for gluten sensitivity involves following a strict gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all products that contain gluten, including bread, pasta, cereals, and many processed foods.

It can be challenging to follow a gluten-free diet, as gluten is found in many foods and can be hidden in ingredients such as soy sauce and salad dressings. Working with a registered dietitian who specializes in gluten-free diets can be helpful in managing the condition.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which consuming gluten causes damage to the small intestine.

In people with celiac disease, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the villi, tiny finger-like projections that help absorb nutrients from food.

The exact cause of celiac disease is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with certain genes are more likely to develop celiac disease, but not everyone with those genes will develop the condition.

The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely and may include:.

Abdominal pain and bloating
Diarrhea or constipation
Nausea and vomiting
Weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Muscle and joint pain
Anemia
Infertility and miscarriage
Skin rash
Depression and anxiety

Diagnosing celiac disease involves blood tests, biopsies of the small intestine, and other diagnostic procedures. Treatment for celiac disease involves following a strict gluten-free diet for life.

Even small amounts of gluten can cause damage to the small intestine, so it’s important to be diligent about avoiding gluten. Working with a registered dietitian who specializes in celiac disease can be helpful in managing the condition.

The Difference Between Sensitivity and Intolerance

While gluten sensitivity and intolerance may sound like interchangeable terms, they are distinct conditions with different underlying causes and outcomes.

Gluten sensitivity is a milder condition than celiac disease and does not cause damage to the small intestine. However, the symptoms of gluten sensitivity can be similar to those of celiac disease.

Intolerance to gluten can refer to any negative reaction to gluten, whether it causes damage to the small intestine or not.

This can include symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and nausea, as well as other symptoms like headaches, joint pain, and skin problems.

Celiac disease is a specific autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system responds to gluten by attacking the lining of the small intestine.

This can lead to malabsorption of nutrients and a range of symptoms like weight loss, anemia, and fatigue.

Conclusion

Sensitivity and intolerance to gluten are increasingly common conditions that can cause a range of symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

While gluten sensitivity does not cause damage to the small intestine, celiac disease is a serious autoimmune condition that can lead to severe health consequences if left untreated.

If you suspect you may have gluten sensitivity, intolerance, or celiac disease, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis and plan for management.

Following a gluten-free diet requires careful attention to food labels and meal planning, and working with a registered dietitian who specializes in gluten-free diets can be helpful.